Processions marking the 9th of Muharram are being held across Pakistan to pay tribute to the unparalleled sacrifices of the martyrs of Karbala, with security placed on high alert in major cities.
The main processions have already begun in Lahore and Peshawar, while Karachi and Rawalpindi are scheduled to hold their central processions later in the day. Strict security, traffic diversions and surveillance measures have been put in place nationwide.
Technology-driven Muharram security plan
On the special instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, extraordinary arrangements have been made across the province to ensure the security, convenience and service of mourners during Muharram.
For the first time, the Punjab government has introduced a comprehensive security and management model based on modern technology, artificial intelligence and digital monitoring to ensure the peaceful conduct of all Muharram programmes.
Authorities have deployed anti-smog guns, sprinklers, cold water dispensers, field hospitals, clinics on wheels, Rescue 1122 teams and Civil Defence special services along procession routes in view of the intense heat and humidity.
Government departments are also working to maintain cleanliness, provide a pleasant environment and facilitate mourners throughout the province.
For the first time in Punjab, 4,836 Imambargahs have been linked to a QR code system, allowing organisers to directly contact government institutions for assistance.
The Muharram e-portal, digital mapping, live CCTV monitoring and a modern command and control system have also been activated. More than 5,000 CCTV cameras, body cameras and drone technology are being used to continuously monitor sensitive locations across the province.
The Home Department, Safe Cities Authority, district administrations and law enforcement agencies remain on high alert, while the Cyber Patrol Unit is actively monitoring and preventing hateful and sectarian content online.
Lahore procession underway
Lahore's main procession has begun from Pando Street in Islampura and is moving along its traditional route. Traffic has been restricted on roads surrounding the procession route, while security remains on high alert to maintain law and order.
The Lahore capital city police officer (CCPO) said mobile phone signals will not be suspended in the city. He added that the procession is being monitored continuously from the central control room.
Karachi prepares for main procession
In Karachi, the main 9th Muharram procession will be taken out from Nishtar Park. Authorities have deployed 5,000 security personnel to ensure foolproof security.
Roads surrounding the procession route have been closed, while mobile phone services have been suspended in the affected areas.
Peshawar enforces three-layer security
The main 9th Muharram procession in Peshawar is moving along its traditional route and will conclude at Imambargah Hussainiya Hall.
Around 1,000 police personnel have been deployed specifically for the main procession in Saddar, while nearly 12,000 officers and personnel from the police and various specialised units are performing security duties across the city.
Personnel from the Rapid Response Force (RRF), Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), Quick Response Force (QRF), Ladies Police, Traffic Police, Bomb Disposal Unit, Ababeel Squad, City Patrol Force and DSB are participating in security operations.
The Safe City Project is monitoring the procession, while checking at all entry and exit points has been further strengthened.
Three-layer security has been implemented, with special gun points established on buildings along the procession route and armoured vehicles deployed at sensitive locations.
Mobile phone service has been partially suspended in the city and Saddar, while services remain closed around mourning processions and adjoining areas.
Rawalpindi/Islamabad
The main 9th Muharram procession in Islamabad started from Imambargah Asna Ashra in G6-2. A large number of mourners, including women and children, participated in the procession. It will culminate at the same Imambargah via its designated routes.
In Rawalpindi, the central procession began from Chhitan Hattian. It will pass through The procession will pass through Iqbal Road, Bird Market before concluding at Imambargah Colonel Maqbool.
Strict security arrangements have been made on the procession route, which is completely sealed. Markets and business centers have been closed.
Hyderabad
The 9th Muharram mourning procession in Hyderabad has been taken out from Latifabad No. 5 under the organisation of Anjuman Imamia Guldasta Akbar.
Strict security arrangements have been made, while roads surrounding the procession route have been sealed with barbed wire.
Multan
In Multan, the mourning procession departed from Imambargah Mumtazabad. A large number of mourners are participating as the procession continues along its traditional route.
Authorities have made special arrangements for sabeels and offerings, while strict security measures remain in place.
Haripur
The main 9th Muharram procession in Haripur began from Imambargah Sajjadia and is following its traditional route.
Strict security arrangements have been implemented, while mobile phone service has been partially suspended.
Daska
In Daska, the central procession started from Imambargah Saadat Gardezi and is moving along its traditional route. Several smaller processions are joining the main procession at Pasrur Road Chowk before it concludes at the same Imambargah late at night.
Authorities have made foolproof security arrangements to ensure the peaceful completion of the procession.
